Contact the Equity Team

  • Kelly Downes
    Chief Equity Officer and Title IX Coordinator
    Kelly Downes (she/her) has been at Berklee since March 2018. In her current role, she leads the Berklee equity team in responding to alleged violations of its Equity and Interim Title IX policies and processes, which prohibit and address sexual misconduct, sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, stalking, and discrimination and/or harassment based on age, ancestry, color, disability, gender, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, mental illness, military/veteran status, national and ethnic origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This includes supervising investigations; meeting with affected students, staff, and faculty; and ensuring that individuals receive appropriate support. You can reach her by emailing equity@berklee.edu or by calling 617-747-6591 and leaving a voicemail.
  • Julianna Despinos
    Julianna Despinos
    Deputy for Equity and Title IX Investigations

    Julianna is the primary investigator for all equity and Title IX complaints. She meets with affected students, staff, and faculty, and creates alternative dispute resolution processes.

  • Amanda Bedford
    Deputy for Equity and Title IX Intake and Support

    Amanda Bedford is your first stop as a part of the Equity and Title IX team. Email her at abedford@berklee.edu.